How NOT to use Microsoft 365 Copilot – Prompts

When using Microsoft 365 Copilot, the quality of your prompt is crucial. A well-crafted prompt can make a world of difference, not just in what Copilot produces but also in the value you derive from it. Let’s explore the power of good prompts and how to maximize your results with Copilot.

The Pitfall of Vague Prompts

A common mistake is using vague prompts, such as:

“Create a holiday picture.”

This prompt lacks details and context. What exactly should the image include? Who is it intended for? What style or atmosphere are you aiming for? Without this information, Copilot has little to work with, and the result is likely to fall short of your expectations.

Why This Doesn’t Work:

• No Specific Details: It leaves too much to Copilot’s imagination.

• Missing Context: It doesn’t provide direction for the output.

• No Instructions: Important elements like text or style are not mentioned.

The Secret to an Effective Prompt

A good prompt is specific, clear, and provides Copilot with everything it needs to bring your vision to life. Consider this improved prompt:

“Create an image of a cozy living room with a fireplace, a Christmas tree decorated with lights and ornaments, and a cat sleeping on a rug. Add the text ‘Happy Holidays’ in a festive, cursive font at the top center. Make the text red with a gold outline.”

What Makes This Good?

• Specific Details: The prompt describes the exact scene (living room, Christmas tree, cat, etc.).

• Text Instructions: It specifies what text to add, where, and in what style.

• Styling: It provides details about the font, colors, and effects (festive, cursive, red with a gold outline).

Tips for better Prompts

Want to harness the full power of Copilot? Use these tips:

Be Specific: Provide as many details as possible about what you want to see or create.

Give Context: Explain why you’re creating something and who it’s for.

Describe the Style: Whether modern, classic, or minimalist, ensure Copilot understands the vibe.

Include Text Instructions: If adding text, specify placement, color, and font.

Practical example

Let’s say you’re creating an invitation for a Christmas party. Use a prompt like:

“Design an invitation for a Christmas party with a festive background full of snowflakes. Add the text ‘Join Our Christmas Party!’ in a playful, white font with shadow.”

This gives Copilot everything it needs to create a visually appealing invitation that meets your expectations.

In Summary

An effective prompt is like a blueprint: the clearer you are, the better the results. With these tips, you’re ready to get the most out of Microsoft 365 Copilot. Try it yourself and see how specific prompts can elevate your workflow!

Made this post together with Melissa Ballesteros.